This month, we have heard several arguments on both sides of the SkyCity convention centre debate. One of the main points of contention concerns job creation, as Prime Minister John Key claims that over 1500 new jobs will be created while The Greens estimate that the deal will only result in 720 new career opportunities for Aucklanders.

The SkyCity convention centre deal will see SkyCity build Auckland’s new $402 million convention centre. In return for this generous feat, the Prime Minister has agreed to give SkyCity Auckland an additional 230 pokies while extending the venue’s gambling license. He has defended the deal by illustrating the ways in which the new convention centre will benefit the community.

Mr Key dismisses claims that the new pokies will increase problem gambling rates and argues that the convention centre will boost the economy by creating 1800 jobs: 1000 in construction and 800 once the property is open to the public. However, The Greens, who have opposed the deal from the beginning, deny these claims.

According to the party’s co-leader Metiria Turei, the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research (NZIER) shows that only 720 new jobs would be created in Auckland. On a nationwide scale, it would result in just 18 new jobs across New Zealand.

"Those MPs who voted for the SkyCity deal on the basis that the economic impacts would outweigh the social harm need to read the NZIER report and rethink their support,” says Mrs Turei. Mr Key has fired back, stating that the NZIER’s figures are incorrect. He claims that his figures, which show 1800 new jobs would be created, are backed by the construction industry and SkyCity.

The debate will continue as submissions on the deal are made. It will be interesting to see which side of the argument is proven correct, but we may have to wait until the convention centre is completed before we find out for sure.

About the Author

George Anderson
Author George, has over 25+ years’ experience in the Pokies and Casinos industry throughout Australia and New Zealand. Loves to research new Pokies games on the block and follows announcements from top industry providers about their upcoming releases. As soon as a new interesting pokie game appears on his radar, George is there to check it out and give you the scoop before anyone else and tell you about all casino sites where can play the latest game. Before this gig, George worked as Pokie game tester, making him an ideal candidate for this genre of work. He is also an animal lover and a proud owner of three dogs.